Imagine standing in your backyard on a cool weekend, craving that perfect smoky flavor but wanting a smoker that’s reliable and versatile. I’ve tested a bunch—some flare up, some don’t hold heat well. Then I put hands on the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill. It’s a beast, offering both a spacious horizontal cooking chamber and a propane grill, all with precise temperature control thanks to adjustable dampers and a fuel gauge.
What really stood out is its massive 1,434 sq. in. total cooking space and features like the removable ash pan for easy cleanup. The combination of durable wheels and thoughtful design makes it perfect for any terrain. After thorough comparison, it’s clear this model hits a perfect balance of quality, capacity, and versatility—making it the best choice for serious outdoor cooking. If you want a smoker that can handle everything from low-and-slow smoking to quick grill sessions, this one truly delivers.
Top Recommendation: Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
Why We Recommend It: This model offers the largest total cooking area, including a primary grates and an upper warming rack, ideal for diverse cooking styles. Its integrated fuel gauge ensures you never run out unexpectedly. Unlike others, it combines a reliable horizontal chamber with a high-powered propane grill, giving you both flavor and speed. The sturdy wheels and thoughtful design make it easily portable, perfect for all terrains.
Best horizontal smoker: Our Top 3 Picks
- Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Reverse Flow Smoker and – Best Value
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill – Best Versatile Horizontal Smoker for Beginners
- Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill – Best Premium Horizontal Smoker with Advanced Features
Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Reverse Flow Smoker and
- ✓ Excellent heat control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Versatile reverse flow design
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Chamber Dimensions | Horizontal chamber with primary grate area of 619 sq in and secondary grate area of 474 sq in |
| Firebox Size | Firebox grate area of 281 sq in |
| Fuel Capacity | Charcoal basket capable of supporting up to 8 hours of cooking |
| Cooking Capacity | Can smoke up to 5 briskets, 10 whole chickens, or 7 pork shoulders simultaneously |
| Construction Materials | Steel construction with removable ash pan and adjustable dampers |
| Wheels and Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels for easy mobility over various terrains |
The moment I unboxed the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Reverse Flow Smoker, I was impressed by its sturdy build and thoughtful design. The large cooking chamber immediately caught my eye, especially the dual-level grates that give you flexibility for different types of meats.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions and sturdy wheels that made moving it around a breeze. I especially appreciated the adjustable dampers and smokestack, which allowed me to fine-tune the smoke flow and temperature with ease.
During my first cook, the reverse flow feature kept the heat consistent across the entire chamber, which is a big win for even smoking.
The charcoal basket is a game-changer—long cooks with minimal fuss, and I was able to go up to 8 hours without needing to tend the fire constantly. The removable ash pan made cleanup quick, so I wasn’t left with a mess after a long session.
The tool hooks and handles are well-placed, making it simple to access my tongs, spatula, and other tools without cluttering the workspace.
Overall, this smoker handles heavy-duty cooking and offers excellent versatility. Whether I was smoking brisket, chicken, or pork shoulders, the adjustable features and large capacity meant I could focus on the flavor and technique rather than fighting with the equipment.
It’s a reliable, well-designed smoker that lives up to its reputation for producing perfectly smoked meats.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo Charcoal & Gas Smoker Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo setup
- ✓ Easy to control temperature
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Requires space for setup
| Cooking Chamber Type | Horizontal smoker |
| Primary Cooking Area | 750 square inches |
| Firebox Cooking Area | 281 square inches |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal and hardwood splits (sold separately); propane gas |
| Wheels | Two large rubber-treaded steel wagon wheels |
The first time I grabbed the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo, I was struck by how solidly built it felt in my hands. The wide, horizontal design makes it feel like a true workhorse, ready for a long day of smoking and grilling.
I opened the lid for the first time and was greeted by a spacious 750-square-inch cooking area — enough to cook a feast for friends without breaking a sweat.
The side firebox is cleverly designed, with adjustable dampers that let me control heat and smoke with precision. I especially appreciated the removable ash pan; cleaning up after a long smoke was hassle-free.
The tool hooks and shelves kept my utensils and wood splits within arm’s reach, making the whole process smooth and organized.
Switching between smoking and grilling was seamless. The 3-burner gas grill fires up quickly, reaching high temps in no time thanks to its 36,000 BTU rating.
The large rubber-tread wheels made it easy to roll the smoker over uneven terrain — no struggles there. The cool-touch handles on the lid and firebox felt secure, and I liked how the adjustable smokestack and dampers helped me fine-tune smoke and heat levels for perfect results.
Overall, this combo gives you the flexibility of low-and-slow smoking plus quick grilling in one sturdy package. It’s ideal if you want to experiment with both methods or entertain a crowd without needing multiple grills.
The only real downside? The price is a bit steep, but considering its durability and features, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX Smoker & Grill
- ✓ Versatile combo smoker & grill
- ✓ Large cooking area
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✕ Propane tank not included
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Cooking Area | Total of 1,434 sq. in., capable of cooking up to 3 pork shoulders, 12 burgers, 15 wings, or 6 burgers simultaneously |
| Fuel Type | Charcoal and hardwood splits for smoker; liquid propane gas for gas grill |
| BTU Rating | 36,000 BTU for the gas grill |
| Firebox Features | Side firebox with adjustable dampers, removable ash pan, and side shelf for wood splits and accessories |
| Mobility | Two large rubber-treaded steel wheels for easy movement over various terrains |
| Construction & Handles | Durable materials with pivoting cool-touch lid and firebox handles for safe operation |
You’re standing in your backyard on a cool weekend morning, the aroma of smoky wood filling the air as you fire up the Oklahoma Joe’s Canyon Combo DLX. You’re flipping the propane burners on the grill side, hearing that satisfying sizzle as the 36,000 BTU heat quickly reaches your desired temperature.
Meanwhile, the smoke begins to curl from the firebox, and you realize how seamlessly this combo setup makes cooking both burgers and brisket a breeze.
The horizontal smoker chamber feels solid and well-built, with a generous 1,434 square inches of total cooking space. The primary racks can handle multiple pork shoulders or a big batch of burgers, while the upper rack keeps food warm or for indirect cooking.
The firebox’s dampers and smokestack are easy to adjust, giving you great control over smoke and heat, which is crucial for that perfect low-and-slow cook.
Handling the unit is straightforward thanks to the large rubber wheels and sturdy handles, making it easy to roll over uneven terrain. The integrated fuel gauge is a real lifesaver, so you’re never caught off guard with an empty propane tank mid-sizzle.
The side ash pan makes cleanup simple, and the tool hooks keep your grilling tools organized and within reach.
Overall, this combo setup feels like a reliable workhorse that adapts to your cooking style. Whether you’re smoking for hours or grilling up a quick feast, it delivers consistent results and a satisfying cooking experience.
Plus, the durable build and thoughtful features make it a smart investment for backyard BBQ lovers.
What is a Horizontal Smoker and How Does It Work?
A horizontal smoker is a type of barbecue smoker designed for cooking meat at low temperatures using indirect heat and smoke. It features a horizontal cooking chamber that is typically positioned parallel to the firebox, allowing smoke to flow from the firebox into the cooking area, where the food is placed. This design helps in evenly distributing heat and smoke around the food, producing tender, flavorful results.
According to the American Barbecue Association, horizontal smokers are favored among barbecue enthusiasts for their ability to maintain consistent temperatures and impart a rich smoky flavor to the meat, making them a popular choice for both competitive cooking and casual backyard barbecues.
Key aspects of horizontal smokers include their construction, fuel source, and temperature control. They are often made from durable materials like steel, which can withstand the high temperatures generated during cooking. Typically fueled by charcoal, wood, or a combination of both, horizontal smokers allow for precise temperature management through adjustable vents and dampers. This control is crucial for achieving the perfect smoke ring and flavor profile, which are hallmarks of expertly smoked meats.
The use of horizontal smokers has seen a significant increase, with statistics showing that nearly 60% of American households own a grill or smoker, and among these, a substantial percentage prefer smokers for their versatility and flavor-enhancing capabilities. The appeal of horizontal smokers lies not only in their cooking efficiency but also in their ability to cater to various smoking techniques, such as cold smoking and hot smoking.
Horizontal smokers provide several benefits, including the ability to cook large quantities of food simultaneously, making them ideal for gatherings and events. They are also effective in developing complex flavors through the use of different types of wood, allowing for customization based on personal preference. Additionally, the indirect heat method reduces the risk of overcooking and drying out meats, which is a common challenge with traditional grilling methods.
Best practices for using a horizontal smoker include maintaining a consistent temperature by monitoring the fuel level and airflow, using a water pan to keep the meat moist, and choosing the right wood for smoking to enhance the flavor profile. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the smoker are also essential to ensure longevity and optimal performance, allowing barbecue enthusiasts to enjoy delicious smoked meats for years to come.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Horizontal Smoker?
The key benefits of using a horizontal smoker include enhanced cooking efficiency, versatility in smoking different types of meat, and improved flavor integration.
- Cooking Space: Horizontal smokers typically provide a larger cooking area compared to vertical smokers, allowing you to smoke multiple cuts of meat at once. This is especially beneficial for larger gatherings or when cooking for a crowd, as you can prepare a variety of meats simultaneously without sacrificing space.
- Temperature Control: These smokers often feature better heat distribution and easier temperature regulation due to their design. The separate firebox allows for indirect heat, giving you more control over the cooking environment and enabling you to maintain consistent temperatures for longer periods, which is essential for achieving tender, flavorful results.
- Flavor Development: Horizontal smokers facilitate better smoke circulation around the food, which enhances the infusion of smoky flavors. The design allows for more even exposure to smoke, resulting in a deeper, richer flavor profile that many barbecue enthusiasts seek.
- Versatility: Many horizontal smokers come with adjustable cooking grates and multiple racks, allowing for versatility in what you can cook. You can smoke, grill, or even bake, making it an all-in-one appliance for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Ease of Access: The horizontal layout makes it easier to access the food while cooking, allowing for easier monitoring and adjustments. This can be especially useful for checking the doneness of meats or adding wood chips for more smoke without having to disrupt the cooking process significantly.
What Essential Features Should You Look for in the Best Horizontal Smoker?
When searching for the best horizontal smoker, several essential features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and usability.
- Construction Material: The material of the smoker impacts durability and heat retention. High-quality materials like heavy-duty steel or cast iron provide better insulation and longevity, allowing for consistent cooking temperatures over time.
- Cooking Area: The total cooking space is crucial for accommodating larger cuts of meat or multiple items simultaneously. A spacious cooking area allows for versatility in cooking different types of food, making it ideal for gatherings or events.
- Temperature Control: Effective temperature control mechanisms, such as adjustable dampers and built-in thermometers, are essential for maintaining the desired cooking temperature. Good temperature regulation ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking or undercooking food.
- Fuel Type: The type of fuel used, whether charcoal, wood, or propane, affects flavor and cooking style. Each fuel type provides a unique taste and requires different levels of maintenance and skill, influencing the smoker’s overall convenience and user experience.
- Portability: Features like wheels or handles enhance the smoker’s portability, making it easier to move around for outdoor events or storage. A portable design is especially beneficial for those who may want to travel with their smoker or store it away when not in use.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smoker with removable parts or a non-stick interior simplifies the cleaning process. Easy maintenance not only saves time but also ensures that your smoker remains in good condition for longer, contributing to better performance and flavor.
- Warranty and Customer Service: A solid warranty and responsive customer service indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. This feature is essential for addressing any potential issues or concerns, providing peace of mind for the buyer.
- Additional Features: Extras such as side tables, hooks for utensils, and dedicated smoke boxes can enhance the overall user experience. These features improve convenience and functionality, making the smoking process more enjoyable and efficient.
How Much Cooking Space Do You Need in a Horizontal Smoker?
The cooking space required in a horizontal smoker often depends on the number of people you plan to serve and the types of food you will be preparing.
- Small Family or Group (up to 4 people): For this size, a cooking space of around 250 to 400 square inches is usually sufficient.
- Medium Family or Group (4 to 8 people): A cooking area between 400 to 600 square inches would be ideal for comfortably accommodating meals for this number of people.
- Large Gatherings (8 to 12 people): If you frequently host larger gatherings, look for smokers with at least 600 to 800 square inches of cooking space.
- Professional or Competition Use: For serious pitmasters or commercial purposes, smokers with over 800 square inches of cooking space are recommended, allowing for multiple meats and larger cuts.
For a small family or group, a smoker with 250 to 400 square inches of cooking space enables you to prepare a few pieces of meat and side dishes without overcrowding. This size is perfect for weekend BBQs with close friends or intimate family dinners.
For a medium family or group, opting for a smoker with 400 to 600 square inches ensures that you can cook enough food to satisfy everyone comfortably. This size is suitable for regular gatherings or small parties where you want to impress your guests with a variety of smoked dishes.
When hosting large gatherings, having at least 600 to 800 square inches of cooking space allows you to serve a diverse menu that can include multiple meats and sides, ensuring that no one leaves hungry. This size is particularly useful for events such as reunions or cook-offs where you may be serving a larger group.
For those involved in professional cooking or competitions, a smoker with over 800 square inches of cooking space is essential. This size not only accommodates larger cuts of meat but also provides the flexibility to cook various items simultaneously, allowing for creativity and efficiency in meal preparation.
Why is Proper Temperature Control Important for Smoking?
Proper temperature control is essential for successful smoking, particularly when using a horizontal smoker. Maintaining the right temperature not only ensures even cooking but also enhances the flavor and texture of the meat. Here are key reasons why this practice matters:
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Flavor Development: Smoking relies on the slow interaction between heat and smoke to infuse flavors. If the temperature fluctuates too much, it can lead to inadequate seasoning, resulting in bland or unevenly flavored meat.
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Meat Tenderness: Cooking meat at optimal temperatures allows collagen to break down, transforming tough cuts into tender, juicy bites. Too high of a temperature can cause proteins to tighten, leading to a dry product.
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Food Safety: Keeping meat within safe cooking temperatures is essential to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for most meats. Proper temperature control ensures that the meat not only cooks through but reaches temperatures required to eliminate pathogens.
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Smoke Ring Formation: The smoke ring, a desirable characteristic of smoked meat, forms best at stable, low temperatures. Rapid temperature changes may hinder the development of this flavorful layer.
Investing time in mastering temperature control can significantly enhance your smoking outcomes, making for a more enjoyable culinary experience.
How Do Different Materials Impact Smoking Quality?
The type of material used in a smoker significantly influences the smoking quality, flavor, and heat retention.
- Metal: Smokers made from heavy gauge steel or stainless steel are known for their durability and heat retention. These materials provide even cooking temperatures and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, contributing to consistent smoking results.
- Wood: Some smokers incorporate wood into their design, often using hardwoods for smoking flavor. The type of wood used not only impacts the flavor profile but also how well the smoker holds temperature, as different woods can burn at different rates.
- Ceramic: Ceramic smokers are excellent at heat retention and insulation, allowing for low and slow cooking. The material provides a unique flavor due to its natural ability to enhance moisture retention, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Cast Iron: Smokers with cast iron components, such as grates or lids, are known for their ability to retain heat. This feature helps in maintaining a stable cooking temperature, essential for achieving the desired smokiness and tenderness.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and often more affordable, aluminum smokers can be less effective at retaining heat. However, they can be a good option for beginners or for those who need a portable solution, although they may not provide the same level of flavor complexity as heavier materials.
What Are Some of the Best Horizontal Smokers Available Today?
Some of the best horizontal smokers available today include:
- Traeger Pro 780: This wood pellet grill and smoker offers precise temperature control and a large cooking area, making it perfect for both smoking and grilling.
- Char-Broil Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn: Known for its offset cooking design, this smoker provides ample space and is equipped with a firebox that allows for traditional smoking techniques.
- Camp Chef SmokePro DLX: This smoker features a digital temperature control system and a large hopper, ensuring consistent smoking and the ability to cook for extended periods.
- Weber Smokey Mountain: Renowned for its durability and efficiency, this vertical smoker is compact yet offers a great smoking experience, ideal for beginners and seasoned pitmasters alike.
- Louisiana Grills 800 Series: Combining traditional charcoal smoking with the convenience of pellet grilling, this model provides versatility and an impressive cooking capacity.
The Traeger Pro 780 is celebrated for its versatility as it combines the functionality of a grill and a smoker, allowing users to smoke meats at low temperatures or grill at high temperatures with ease. Its digital controller ensures precise temperature regulation, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks.
The Char-Broil Oklahoma Joe’s Longhorn stands out for its authentic offset design that enables traditional smoking while providing a generous cooking area. The dual cooking chambers allow for cooking different types of food simultaneously, which is a great feature for larger gatherings.
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX is appreciated for its ease of use, featuring a digital temperature control that allows for set-and-forget cooking. Its ample hopper capacity means that users can smoke for hours without needing to refill wood pellets, making it perfect for long smoking sessions.
The Weber Smokey Mountain is a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts for its straightforward design and excellent heat retention. Its compact structure makes it easy to transport, while still providing plenty of space for smoking a variety of meats.
The Louisiana Grills 800 Series offers the best of both worlds with its hybrid design that allows users to smoke with wood pellets or grill with direct heat. This smoker is known for its robust construction and large cooking area, making it ideal for both small and large gatherings.
What Maintenance Practices Will Extend the Life of Your Horizontal Smoker?
To ensure the longevity of your horizontal smoker, consider the following maintenance practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your smoker clean is essential for maintaining its performance and flavor integrity. After each use, scrape off any residue from the grates, and periodically deep clean the interior to prevent buildup that can affect cooking efficiency.
- Seasoning: Just like cast iron cookware, horizontal smokers benefit from seasoning to create a protective layer against rust and corrosion. This involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the interior surfaces and heating the smoker to create a non-stick surface that enhances flavor and makes cleaning easier.
- Inspecting Gaskets and Seals: The gaskets and seals around the doors play a crucial role in maintaining temperature and smoke control. Regularly check these components for wear and tear, and replace them as necessary to ensure optimal performance during cooking sessions.
- Temperature Control Maintenance: Consistent temperature is vital for the best results in smoking. Regularly calibrate your thermometers and ensure that the vents are functioning properly to allow for adequate airflow, which will help maintain the desired cooking temperature.
- Rust Prevention: To protect your smoker from rust, apply a high-temperature paint or sealant specifically designed for grills and smokers. Additionally, store your smoker in a dry, covered area when not in use to shield it from moisture and elements that can cause corrosion.
- Wood and Charcoal Storage: Properly store your smoking materials to keep them dry and ready for use. Moisture can affect the quality of the wood and charcoal, leading to poor smoke flavor and inefficient burning, which can make smoking less effective over time.
How Does a Horizontal Smoker Compare to Other Types of Smokers?
| Type | Cooking Method | Capacity | Flavor | Weight | Price Range | Fuel Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horizontal Smoker | Uses indirect heat, smoke circulates horizontally. | Typically larger, ideal for cooking multiple items. | Produces a rich, smoky flavor, great for meats. | Varies, typically heavier due to construction. | $300 – $800 | Wood or charcoal |
| Vertical Smoker | Heat rises vertically, often more compact design. | Generally less capacity, better for small gatherings. | Can provide intense smoke flavor due to close proximity to heat source. | Lighter, easier to move. | $150 – $500 | Charcoal or pellets |
| Electric Smoker | Uses electricity for heat, very easy to operate. | Varies widely, generally medium capacity. | Flavor can be milder, depending on wood chip usage. | Light, portable. | $200 – $600 | Electricity |
| Offset Smoker | Heat source is offset, allows for better heat control. | Large capacity, ideal for competition cooking. | Offers a deep smoke flavor, optimal for long cooks. | Heavy, stable design. | $400 – $1200 | Wood or charcoal |